₦airaland Forum

nelszx:
If I were a coach, Onazi will come in 3-5 minutes before game ends. He leaves his position and creates space for opposition to deal with the defence. The reason I prefer Ogu ahead of him in that regard (go for ball when necessary) so the defence is well shielded.
Onazi follows every ball and the room he creates is terrible. We should leave sentiment and captainship aside, that guy shouldn't be starting games at all. Although some days he comes good but often times he's disastrous.

Sir you said we should leave sentiment but your comment is full of sentiments.

Onazi is disastrous? how sir,pls can you point out one of his disastrous outing for eagles.

Oh you prefer Ogu,well accepted,your opinion which i must respect but i will pick Onazi over Ogu anytime any day,my opinion.

BascoVanVeli:
We all know with Rohr that it is one thing to get a call up and another to actually play.

Is that really cool?

SerVik:
Uzoho still lacks confidence.

One major highlight of his game when he first came into the picture was his ball distribution. But what these two games have shown is that without confidence, even that part of his game will suffer.

We saw him hurriedly kicking all backpasses without first trapping the ball and looking up. I really hope he is psyched up because if we keep gifting the opponent possession in the guise of clearing his line, one of such would come back to hurt us.

Which keeper do we have that don't lack confidence ?

Thank you

Was Aina not brought on as a sub for Idowu later in the game?

Not that I want to say I dey reason pass some people o, but mbok, shey Rohr cannot decide that he wants Aina playing LB for us and not RB? So, because Aina is great at RB for his club, the national team coach should just put him there?

Rohr does not want Aina playing RB, he is grooming him for the LB position and Aina must get accustomed to it, he can't be confusing him with LB on Monday and RB on Tuesday.

Ebuehi was not 100% fit in that game and that was why even as he started strong, he finished weak

So, please, let people stop being myopic with their reasoning and figure out that in football 1+1 is not necessarily 2.

Truidstar:
Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard, Alex oxlade Chambelin, Dele Alli, Kyle walker, Danny Rose, Joe Gomez, Ryan Bertrand and Ashley Young. These are are English players and they are all black. Southgate is now telling Dele Alli he is not sure to start, he prefers an Adam llalana of Liverpool who has not up to 2 matches this season. Magomago don start to eliminate black players.

My broda England national team is a failure watch them crash at the World Cup

Can I say KPOM x20? Like I had said a few times, Nigerian fans are special - we tend to straggle from one extreme to the other. If a team wins a game, then we're the best ever and we are going to win the world cup. But once the team struggles, no matter the circumstances, it's panic button all over the place ... we gotta invite player A-B-C ... blah blah blah!!!

It seems that we're incapable of putting things in good perspectives. The Tuesday game was a friendly, that's all it is. It's time for the coach to tryout new players and new formations, and discard the ones that doesn't work out. There's no need for panic. I can name 4 or 5 players who started the Tuesday game but won't start in Russia.

And in addition, our opponents are not fairing any better either. Croatia played their A team but still lost to a 10 man Peru team. And they relied on a penalty to beat Mexico on Tuesday night! Iceland lost. Argentina lost. But you can't see this level of panic amongst their fans, because they know better! Anyway, I have stopped reading most of the comments on here because they are baseless. The people I am most interested in hearing their opinions are the players and the technical crew. I would like to understand the total lack of cohesion and why we couldn't string 3 passes together, even after nearly 1 week of being in the camp.


O pari

tbaba1234:
No one has said this but Ekong could be blamed for both goals.. I have seen blames for Ebuehi and Awaziem but few have looked at Ekong but he arguably had the chief blame. Ekong has been our most consistent defender but he could have done better on both occasions.

The truth is that, you can not hold just one or two persons responsible.. It was poor defending as a group. A sharp contrast to the organized defensive display against Poland.

Awaziem had a solid game (especially in the second half) before the goal, he certainly has a role in the final 23. Ebuehi started strongly but seemed to fade.. (could be that he is not yet 100%).

After reviewing the game, i do not see what the panic is about.. The coach will learn his lessons and come again.

Chill, it is just a friendly.. The purpose is to discover weaknesses and areas where we can improve.

In the run-up to Atlanta 96, Togo beat our Olympic dream team 3:1 in the national stadium, Lagos.. We played with all our stars and were battered by Togo. Several Nigerians wrote off the team.. In fact, many people did not watch our games till we got to the knock out stages. It was this same team that beat Brazil and Argentina.

The USA 94 and France 98 teams, lost almost all their friendlies before the WC but still had impressive performances in the tournament proper. Better to struggle in March, than to struggle in June. The coaches has a few months to review the tapes of these friendlies, figure out their weaknesses and work hard to improve during the final camp.

Good point! I think that going forward, it should be either Onazi or Joel Obi - not both. Personally, I will prefer Joel to start with Onazi coming off the bench.


O pari

TheSuperNerd:
It could be... But this is the same way we liked the Ndidi-Joel-Onazi combo on paper when the lineup came out before we saw the lapses in the Serbia game....

We have seen the Mikel-Ndidi-Onazi combo in action... That midfield played a super part in destroying African Champs, Cameroon 4-0 in uyo.

The Mikel-Ndidi-Joel could work buuuuttt... We need to see it in a friendly first.

Musa may probably make the team, because he's a senior player and based on naija factor as well. However, he wouldn't make my team if I were selecting the team. He isn't better than Kelechi, Ighalo, Moses Simon, or Iwobi so I can't understand why he should make the team.


O pari

andrew444:
What about musa ?

In truth, I agree with the writer on this point.... against Serbia, Ndidi was indeed the most advanced of the three MFs (meaning Ndidi played no.10 surprisingly) and he did impress with his footwork and ball holding but nothing came out with respect to creativity and dictating play. Joel played CM (sometimes CDM) while Onazi played DM. This again may have restricted Joel's offensive shine.... not making excuses for Joel oooo... he was even abysmal with the throws and still failed to connect to the attacking third even as a CM playing somewhat behind or alongside Ndidi and ahead of Onazi in that triangle (more like scalene triangle) but his defensive duties were okay (against Poland he did his defensive job pretty good but could not exert himself offensively in a two man central midfield combo with Ndidi with Nacho playing further forward behind Ighalo) but I want him to be "properly" tried in the no.10 role primarily so that we know for sure. Else, we got Iwobi for Mikel 2.0..... enjoy the article

Did Joel Obi make the most of his Super Eagles opportunity?

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/95/8/joel-obi_1fmpqhlwycg1o1mht09bwsgk9f.jpg

The Torino man was given ample gametime to impress by Gernot Rohr, but did he make a case for World Cup inclusion?


There won’t have been too many Nigeria players who were under greater pressure to impress during this international break than Joel Obi .

The midfielder has endured a frustrating international career, failing to build on the promise he showed as a youngster—when he was once considered alongside John Obi Mikel—with a series of injuries and fitness problems undermining his progress.
He failed to establish himself at Internazionale as the club appeared to gradually lose faith in his consistency, and missed out on both the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and 2014 World Cup.

Now, however, enjoying a renaissance of sorts at Torino, and with the 2018 tournament in Russia fast approaching, Gernot Rohr offered Obi an invaluable opportunity to showcase his qualities in the green of Nigeria.

The 26-year-old was given ample time to impress during both friendlies—the victory over Poland and the defeat by Serbia—but did he do enough with his minutes to ensure he makes the cut for Russia?

In truth, the jury’s out.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/ee/ae/joel-obi-luka-milivojevic_ysg96u1fpn0h1m10r3xtldyus.jpg



Assuming Obi stays fit between now and the tournament—a big ‘if’ considering his record—it remains to be seen whether he’ll take his place within Rohr’s 23.

First of all, beyond fitness issues, there is considerable competition for a spot in the midfield, and player with a dubious injury record may resemble an un-necessary risk unless he offers something that no one else can.

Ogenyi Onazi, John Obi Mikel and Wilfred Ndidi are essentially settled as Rohr’s first-choice three, with John Ogu and Oghenekaro Etebo likely to fill up two more spots.

Mikel Agu has enjoyed the faith of Rohr in the past, while Henry Uche Agbo and Chidiebere Nwakali are other options, but Obi ostensibly appears to be battling with this trio for any potential sixth midfield spot.

To climb in the pecking order, he surely needs a injury to one of the aforementioned players, or needed to have made an indisputable case for himself during the international break.

He didn't succeed.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/Goal_Nigeria/6a/8c/joel-obi-of-nigeria_1tkuk7uumqres1s0wvzsp0qc9x.jpg


In the first match, against Poland, his ability to express himself was largely denied him by Rohr’s conservative tactics, which saw Obi handed a more defensive brief as Onazi began the game on the bench.
This was a consequence of Rohr’s decision to switch to a central-midfield two in order to give Kelechi Iheanacho the opportunity to impress just off Odion Ighalo.

Obi may have done his duties effectively, demonstrating his energy and discipline, but this was hardly the opportunity to showcase his offensive qualities.
In the second game, with the midfield three restored and Mikel still absent, the stage appeared to be set for Obi to come into his own.

In the event, however, the Turin-based midfielder was again utilised in a deeper role—this time alongside captain-for-the-day Onazi—with Ndidi perplexingly used as the most advanced of the triangle.

It was another missed opportunity by Rohr, with Obi not allowed to prove whether he could effectively be Mikel’s understudy after ahead being handed a more restrictive brief.

If the Tianjin TEDA man cannot make it to Russia—for whatever reason—then could Obi replace him effectively?
We still don’t know…and neither does Rohr.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/5f/6f/john-obi-mikel_1glg8rcq8hm5a1xsc0vipshl8o.jpg


Certainly, at this stage, the left-footer cannot realistically hope
to have convinced the manager that he offers more thrust than Etebo or is a better passer than Ogu.

In principle, his dynamism, dribbling and technical class could have made him the ideal candidate to link the midfield and the attack—the great failing the Eagles demonstrated in London—but the opportunity was missed acquire more evidence.

What does count in Obi’s favour, however, is his versatility.

While he’s established himself as a central midfield, his ability to play through the middle in a more advanced or withdrawn role, or in various positions out wide, could make him a valuable asset in a tournament environment.
Taking a player with Obi’s dexterity to Russia would ensure that the Eagles are covered for any series of potential injuries or suspensions, with the midfielder representing something of a security blanket in the case of a crisis of personnel.


https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/Goal_Nigeria/a3/a7/joel-obi_1ntnsb0tgmx9o1hach3v9mzlm2.jpg

He’s not exactly the Nigerian James Milner, but it’s an attribute that will certainly count in his favour when Rohr comes to draw up his squad.

In conclusion, Obi’s case hasn’t been advanced as much as it might have been during this international break.
He kept fit and he proved that he can do a job in a deeper midfield role—both representing successes—but he didn’t make himself invaluable and hasn’t demonstrated that he can take the creative reins should Mikel miss out.

If he can stay fit, we’re tipping him to sneak into the squad on the basis of his versatility and his poise, but heartbreak only ever feels a whisker away.

Will this be another false dawn for everyone’s favourite midfielder Nigeria almost had?


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/did-joel-obi-make-the-most-of-his-super-eagles-opportunity/myqywfn7xyzy1r59yoztio9vf


Russia 2018 WC Countdown: 77 days 2 hours 22 mins to go

Kog45:
Sir you said we should leave sentiment but your comment is full of sentiments.

Onazi is disastrous? how sir,pls can you point out one of his disastrous outing for eagles.

Oh you prefer Ogu,well accepted,your opinion which i must respect but i will pick Onazi over Ogu anytime any day,my opinion.

Well opinion differs.......we're entitled to our different opinions
Check the game we played Onazi and games we played without him. He forgets his role as a DM and go for every ball and leaves acre of space for opposition to punish. Football has gone beyond that stage.
He marks well ..... Yes
He dribbles ..... Occasionally.
Needless tackles and take ons - Yes
But his duty is to shield the back 4 which he does but leaves them unshielded as the game progressed.

What did you notice in the Polish and Serb game?
Ndidi's job was to shield the back 4 and he gave a beautiful rendition in that game. It was like we were playing with 5 defenders.

Onazi was to do suit against the Serb, he was suspect most times and leaving his Right DM position to follow every ball . Where was he in the first goal scored by the Serbs?

The games he lived up to the billing since after the 2014 WC were the double header against Cameroon.

I'm not saying he should be dropped but he should be talked to at every point in the game to maintain his position (not chasing and running after every ball played to the midfield) we have other midfielders too.

Be truthful to yourself score the DMs we paraded against Poland and the Serbs. The game vs the Serbs was just a typical repeat of the S.A. defeat.

nelszx:
Well opinion differs.......we're entitled to our different opinions
Check the game we played Onazi and games we played without him. He forgets his role as a DM and go for every ball and leaves acre of space for opposition to punish. Football has gone beyond that stage.
He marks well ..... Yes
He dribbles ..... Occasionally.
Needless tackles and take ons - Yes
But his duty is to shield the back 4 which he does but leaves them unshielded as the game progressed.

What did you notice in the Polish and Serb game?
Ndidi's job was to shield the back 4 and he gave a beautiful rendition in that game. It was like we were playing with 5 defenders.

Onazi was to do suit against the Serb, he was suspect most times and leaving his Right DM position to follow every ball . Where was he in the first goal scored by the Serbs?

The games he lived up to the billing since after the 2014 WC were the double header against Cameroon.

I'm not saying he should be dropped but he should be talked to at every point in the game to maintain his position (not chasing and running after every ball played to the midfield) we have other midfielders too.

Be truthful to yourself score the DMs we paraded against Poland and the Serbs. The game vs the Serbs was just a typical repeat of the S.A. defeat.

OK Sir different opinions cos we view the game differently and good we are not coach.

World Cup: Fifa To Pay Benfica N26.6M For Ebuehi, ADO Den Haag Pockets N53.2M

https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/football_pics/7317Ebuehi.png

It is all but confirmed that Nigeria international Tyronne Ebuehi will depart Dutch Eredivisie outfit ADO Den Haag in the summer transfer window, with Benfica nailed on favorites for his signature, allnigeriasoccer.com understands.

Ebuehi penned a preliminary contract with Benfica in January, which will become activated on July 1 after his contract with ADO Den Haag has expired and the transfer window is open for business.

Everything is pointing to the fact that Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr will include the Netherlands born talent among the 23 players he is taking to the 2018 World Cup.

Though Ebuehi will not be registered as a player of ADO Den Haag at the start of the football festival in Russia, the Portuguese setup will still be compensated by Fifa.

Starting from June 1, 2018, when the players included in the squad list must report to the training camp, Fifa will pay $8,530 per player per day (equivalent of N3,070,800.00) until they are knocked out of the competition whether or not they participated in the group games.

For the group stage alone, which ends with the Super Eagles facing Argentina on June 26, football's governing body will pay $221,780 (N79,840, 800.00) for each player named in the Nigerian roster, and the sum would increase if Nigeria advance to the last sixteen.

While ADO Den Haag will be allocated two-thirds of the amount, approximately N53.2 million, Benfica will receive N26.6 million (one-third of the amount) from Fifa even without Ebuehi kicking a ball for the club.

The 22-year-old has penned a five-year contract with Benfica.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=27144



Russia 2018 WC Countdown: 77 days 1 hour 7 mins to go

Icon79:
Musa may probably make the team, because he's a senior player and based on naija factor as well. However, he wouldn't make my team if I were selecting the team. He isn't better than Kelechi, Ighalo, Moses Simon, or Iwobi so I can't understand why he should make the team.


O pari

lol

MetalJigsaw:
Nice post but I don't agree with where you said Ighalo wasn't clinical, as if he got chances in that match. Even Lewandowski will look ordinary in that match with an empty midfield and no supporter.

Ighalo is a good striker with good attributes of a striker but that doesn't make him clinical..Actually few strikers have the attribute of being clinical..just because a striker is not clinical doesn't mean he can't score goals..

When you see the level of composure and the calmness of strikers that score, you know they are clinical...Ighalo has never been clinical for SE, but that doesn't stop him from scoring goals...even when he was at Watford banging goals left right and center, he still wasn't clinical thou he was in form.. My broda I'm sure you can mention most of the clinical strikers we have in the world..the only clinical striker we have on our team currently is Iheanacho but he lacks proper hold up play...the coach would have to decide who he wants based on the attributes he needs for that position..

goldfish80:
I am in total agreement with your post. To be honest it is very difficult to take out any positive from the 180 minutes of football the team played. It appears the players bond more outside the pitch than on the pitch. This team have played together for the better part of 3 years but they still play like strangers with many unforced errors and misplaced passes.
I am sure Serbia and Poland would have been shocked how easy they found it passing through us .
Finally, I disagree about your point on Uzoho. He is a million miles from being ready for the big time. What he has going for him is his height. Not natural ability or experience.

The good news however will be that these games will ground the team and give Nigerian fans a reality check, especially those who bash the Chan team,Keshi and Uchebos, Babatunde etc....

Thanks Sir
For me Uzoho did not perform poorly over the two matches infact he performed well in my view. He made an excellent save against Lewandowski or will you say it was his height that helped him in that ocassion? The denied goal against Poland was not his fault as an attacker was in front of him, so he was anticipating a touch from the attacker so he was caught in two minds and again this was not his fault but the defender for allowing an opponent to be free in the 6yard box.
Against Serbia he did well. The two goals were not his fault. He only made a mistake in the heading which seemed to go over the line, but give the young man a break, everyone makes mistake.
This reminds me of De gea's( hope the spelling is correct) error which cause the goal against Argentina. The only difference between the two matches is that Spain forwards responded and scored goals which renders the mistake inconsequential. The constant focus on our defenders and goalkeepers only shows how poor our forwards have been. If only we had been scoring, our attention would have been less on our defensive positions and players. So I dare say our main problem is the midfield and attack. Guardiola's Barcelona dominated football playing with a 'weak' defence (as their strength wasn't actually defending but playing from the back).

Icon79:
Musa may probably make the team, because he's a senior player and based on naija factor as well. However, he wouldn't make my team if I were selecting the team. He isn't better than Kelechi, Ighalo, Moses Simon, or Iwobi so I can't understand why he should make the team.


O pari

Lol

komekn:
Aina the best RB in the championship sadly was missing, went to bar beach to chop Suya Abe.

Martz101:
Aina was fit

It's just a Sarcasm Bros! Coz if an unfit Player could play for 90mins and a fit Player was glued to the Bench for the same Duration, then to Rohr; Shehu and Rohr are the only RBs in the Team.

Farzat:
I didnt watch d match against Serbia live, so I was not under any pressure when i watched d replay and my observations are as follows;
1. Serbians has size and physical fitness advantage over us. (You will always struggle when challenging someone bigger than you. E.G d disallowed goal. Awazie was struggling to stop d player from heading d ball but d player was taller and stronger than him)
Advise- We shud not go into physical battle with a team physically stronger than us. Imagine playing 3 DM/Tacklers (Ndidi, Onazi n joel) in such match, u dont expect such match to be free flowing and entertaining. Winning such match can only be by a slim chance as d case of Poland. We must approach such game with a different formation n tactics to outsmart them like our 2nd half approach against Argentina.
2. The Selection. I think d choice of Onazi in front of Awazie is wrong. Onazi is a kind of tackler that moves to wherever ball is available thereby leaving lots of space behind, In any case he misplaces passing, the opponent utilizes d space he left thereby exposing Awazie who is not experienced enough to handle such pressure.
Advise- We should have a commanding CBs that would always call d DM to order or shout on another player to fall back whenever d DM is caught out of position. As for Onazi I think he should be coming in as a late subtitute for maybe a striker whenever we are defending a goal.
3. There are many areas to improve in this team before WC, so i wont be surprised to see any of these players gatecrash d team. 1-Sareren bazee. GR will like to use d NT success of these German breeds to lure others. 2-
Isaac Success. GR likes him. If his form picks, he has edge over Musa and Simon. He can be another version of VM on d left. 3-Austin Ejide. He is d best option to fall back on. He has d experience. No issue with NFF like Enyeama and he has no terrible past working against him like DeleAyenugba. 4-Chinedu Obasi. His move to Bolton is simply to showcase his quality to avoid criticism when invited. He is eager to start playing and we all know what he can do. So dont be surprises that after 2 matches d call for his invitation will start (maybe Mikel's Connection). 5-Onyekuru. This guy wants this WC more than others, its d easiest way for him to return to Everton and so he can do anything to prove himself. If he recovers on time, he will definitely work harder than ever n increase d fan's call for his inclusion.
This remaining 2 months will be very intense for players fighting to be recorgnized and others fighting to retain their place in d team. My prayer is that non of them will be injured and d injured ones would recover quickly.

You are spot on. I agree completely with you on your take especially with Ejide . If Apkeyi,Ezenwa and Uzoho are jittery in these friendly matches,you can imagine what would happen at the world cup proper. I think we can still manage Ejide. With his experience,exposure and his build, he can still perform very well at the world cup.

Kalapizim:
have you also thought why conte has morata injured with giroud on the bench but choose to play harzard at number 9 ? coaches do these things for reasons best known to them. I don't know why we are blaming players . They didn't have a good game period ! Uche Agbo didn't play yet again how about that.

Did you really understand the Discourse at all?! Was Hazard fit for the Match or not?!

Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup


IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.


The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.

The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.

Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard..

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Home Opinion Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
OpinionSuper Eagles
Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
By admin - March 29, 2018, 1:08 pm248 0
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Dele Aiyenugba
IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.

The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.



The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.


Daniel Akpeyi (left) with Ezenwa in Eagles training
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.


Austin Ejide
Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard.


Francis Uzoho dives to stop Robert Lewandowski in Poland
Understudy

Going forward, the best thing to happen to this youngster is to understudy Ejide and Aiyenugba in Russia and by the next World Cup in Qatar, he would be a finished product.

He will be 23 in 2022 and he continues to do his thing well at club level, there won’t be anyone stopping him in Qatar.

Surely, he got the potential to get the top spenders breaking the banks for him, but he has to work his way up there.

Handing him top responsibilities in Russia could expose him big time and his progress could be affected negatively afterwards.

We are not running against the time yet and Eagles will gain a lot more with an assured cover in the last line of defence.

Genuine lovers of Nigerian football will and should be on the same page because football unites all diverse ethnic groups at least for 90 minutes.



By Ikenwa Nnabuogor

darkelf:
Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup


IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.


The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.

The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.

Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard..

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Home Opinion Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
OpinionSuper Eagles
Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
By admin - March 29, 2018, 1:08 pm248 0
Share on Facebook Tweet on Twitter

Dele Aiyenugba
IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.

The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.



The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.


Daniel Akpeyi (left) with Ezenwa in Eagles training
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.


Austin Ejide
Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard.


Francis Uzoho dives to stop Robert Lewandowski in Poland
Understudy

Going forward, the best thing to happen to this youngster is to understudy Ejide and Aiyenugba in Russia and by the next World Cup in Qatar, he would be a finished product.

He will be 23 in 2022 and he continues to do his thing well at club level, there won’t be anyone stopping him in Qatar.

Surely, he got the potential to get the top spenders breaking the banks for him, but he has to work his way up there.

Handing him top responsibilities in Russia could expose him big time and his progress could be affected negatively afterwards.

We are not running against the time yet and Eagles will gain a lot more with an assured cover in the last line of defence.

Genuine lovers of Nigerian football will and should be on the same page because football unites all diverse ethnic groups at least for 90 minutes.



By Ikenwa Nnabuogor

Are we building for the future or we just want immediate gains today? Even if we go to the world cup and get humiliated at least we gained valuable experience. Germany started a project in 2006 and it came to fruition in 2014. Rohr knows what he is doing.

TheSuperNerd:
Oya Egbon... Now let us reason this thing together.

You see this Kelechi Nwakali.... He made 9 eredivisie appearances mostly from the bench for VVV Venlo and even registered a goal from the LW role... He played the other eight games as AM (4), CM (1), and RW (3). His last game in the dutch topflight was against heerenven as an AM. He featured for 67 mins or so.

Now back at MVV in the dutch second division, he had played 10 games all as an AM and in his last four games, he had bagged three goals. He had 4 goals 1 assist in 10 games as a CAM. The last of his strikes came just this past weekend on Friday the 23rd (on the second day of the international break). I have watched those games and Kelechi Nwakali is showing great growth and form for MVV in that AM role. The way he dictates play and bosses games show talents beyond his years. He may be in with a chance to return to Arsenal for preseason and given a chance to show himself after this season is over. That is the latest on him that I gathered on his Arsenal chances.

Now I am not saying "oya give him automatic invite then..".... Nope and Nope. But I want you to really look unbiased at Kelechi's case and understand that what we need is to try the best available talents for the role. This can be done Post-Russia.


Now this takes me further to what I mean by " best available talents in the CAM role"


Another option is Abdul Ajagun.... (Come on Close your teeth.. And listen carefully )

Now, Abdul Ajagun proved himself in the dutch topflight and now he is doing his thing in the Belgian league for KV Kortrijk.

With 8 goals 3 or 4 assists I think in both the Jupiler league and in the Belgian Cup all scored when he played as an AM, he seems to have really shown he is capable of doing the goods in that role. He is another talented available option who can be looked at. He also plays DM, CM, and RM but he strives better as a CAM. He and Kelechi Nwakali, I have both watched and feel they can be brought in and looked at by the coach... Plus they are available.


Josh Onomah... Now this lad is one but the question is. Is he available for us? With him, we have to first approach him and convince him to come play for us. And we may have to wait for an answer for a couple of months. He is another option we can surely explore okay but until then, let us focus on the top quality options we do have that we feel can take over in the long run from Mikel... "K.Nwakali or Ajagun for a start". There is still Ovie Ejaria but I reckon he is behind K.Nwakali and Ajagun for now and Ajagun is ahead of both of them in terms of exposure at the top level.

Onomah have played 28 games for Aston Villa fc in the English Championship (17 starts and 11 sub roles) and scored 4 goals and given 1 assist all as an AM. He had featured in a few other roles as LM (3) but mainly as the AM.


Within the Super Eagles current Squad, the closest that can come to playing the CAM role is Alex Iwobi. And I hope he can be that option for the role in Russia when Mikel is take off with A Simon Moses coming in to take over his wing role. And also we must ne mindful of moving Alex Iwobi to that CAM role coz you get the best out of him there when he is surrounded by players that understand his style like Kelechi Iheanacho and Victor Moses. Alex's synergy with Iheanacho especially is key.


So my simple thought on this is simple... We don't have much time before Russia to integrate another. Let us go with Alex Iwobi as the temporary option to stand in for Mikel. And the coach must widely ensure that the team has on field the players that will make Alex's gifted class from the CAM role flow endlessly like Iheanacho and Victor Moses who will bring out the devastating flow of soccer that will make you all see why Iwobi is Magic.



On Ajagun, I will love to see him now but I don't know if Rohr will look his way until Post-Russia. And the time is also short too.

On Onomah.. Let us first approach him then.

On Kelechi Nwakali... I maintain that in this lad I see the future of our CAM role which is why I say we defy logic and place him on our team's radar for early integration into the team. He really oozes class. Egbon Forgiveness... Please... For once just take your time and watch this lad and tell me what you think of him based on his technical abilities. No dey always talk of "prove yourself" afterall Iwobi never prove himself like that before Oliseh give am invite naa abi...

On Ovie Ejaria... With time, his time will also come.

See ehn.... This 2-0 loss is good. We were without Mikel, Balogun, Victor Moses (for the second half), Kelechi Iheanacho (still our best goal threat), and Etebo (who could have come in as an impact sub). Ebuehi too was not 100% fit so he struggled no doubt.

This is not the time for wild reactive names-calling to come salvage the team. We have to be wise and mindful of the team's synergy and growing cohesion... We cannot just make drastic changes because of this loss especially when those being called for are not exactly on a better level than what we have. Cyriel Dessers for instance is not better than Ighalo right now... You can take that from me. I have seen him play. Also, he won't find it so way blending with Iwobi or Victor Moses upfront... A team strives on understanding and Synergy.

Let us be careful and address the main issue which is our CAM... We all saw what a Mikel-Iwobi-Iheanacho combo did to Argentina... There was no Victor Moses there at all... We must be mindful of our best and our strengths and build on that.

I could say more and there are so many angles to be addressed but I choose to stick with the positives and the fact that we had Four key players missing against Serbia. Serbia was at full strength with Tadic, Matic, Kostic and all... That first XI was solid. I said this earlier and I said it even before the match kicked off.

This CAM is my biggest concern.... And I have just given yiy my thoughts. Egbon... Reason this matter with me. I respect your views because I realised you are true fan who just has his own controversial way of showing support for the team... This is why I indulge you. And me too I want the best... So reason this matter wella. Thanks for the read.

I have gone through your comment and I can see the angle you are coming from.

However, please, kindly take note there's nothing bias about my stance that Kelechi Nwakali must prove himself before he gets a call. Because I believe if truly he oozs class then we must first of all see how he translate his class in a decent league with sublim performance before we even think of putting him on the radar not to talk of giving him a call.

But as we speak, he is currently in the second division of Dutch league after he was unble to break into the Eredivise team he played for.

In short, he was benched 6 - 7 times before he was sent on loan back to a division lower, a division he was last season. He couldn't managed an assist or get a goal in the 5 games he played as an AMF in the Eredivise.

In the lower divisions, he has scored 3 goals with 1 assist. He might be dictating and bossing the play but let us remind ourselves that he is doing that in a lower division but could not do that when the bar was raised. Are you getting me?

Now, let me address your notion on the best available talent in CAM.


First of all, Mikel Obi is number one and he can still play for 3-5 years if he keeps fit. The next close to him is Alex Iwobi but I think he is not serious with his game. After him come Abdul Ajagun and Raheem Lawal. Yes. Raheem Lawal can play three roles effectively, CAM, CMF and DMF.

These two players are best available talents behind Mikel Obi and Alex Iwobi going to the world Cup though I still think Sone Aluko can play the role wella but if we talk about post World cup, then Josh Onomah should be called because he's even ready now to play for Nigeria. It's not different to change nationality.

Therefore, I don't see Kelechi Nwakali in the picture for now.. He may come good after the preseason with Arsenal or later in a good league, I hope so but until then I don't think he deserves a call-up for now.

I will watch Kelechi Nwakali again though I know he is better in the CMF role after I saw him played.

This our team needs an AMF going to the world Cup but Iwobi is not business like.

Please, try to understand the angle I am coming from. Shalom

BascoVanVeli:
He almost scored while on the ground but for a block

You are right.

Truidstar:
Are we building for the future or we just want immediate gains today? Even if we go to the world cup and get humiliated at least we gained valuable experience. Germany started a project in 2006 and it came to fruition in 2014. Rohr knows what he is doing.

Sir there is one thing we should get here regards eagles invitation, any Nigerian playing competitive football regardless of his age has every right to eagles if Rohr extend invitation to him.

If anyone is suggesting Austin Ejide,Aiyenugba or Enyeama,good cos they are still active but left for Rohr to decide as a coach.

If Rohr believe it's Uzoho good for the team and if he believe there is need to call Ejide and Aiyenugba even Enyeama all well and good,what matter most is our performance.

Sir are you saying we are going to WC to build for future cos am hearing this tone often on this thread,some are even saying our performance doesn't matter and Rohr should be given life contract.

I think this is our sixth WC attempts and i will not deceive you Nigerians are expecting clear cut performance from eagles,anything short of this is not acceptable,forget the team is for the future slogans.

Truly we have a very young squad that will give us a good platform for 2022 WC but not an excuse for poor performance at WC.

I remember Senegal went to 2002 WC with relatively young team and reached quarter final even defeated France the defending champion.So we can do it too cos the talents are abound.

I think the team is evolving and i know Rohr as a season coach will do thorough appraiser of the friendlies matches played so far to address the grey area for better performance.

Meliforme:
[/font][color=#770077][/color][font=Lucida Sans Unicode]tbaba, you are very intelligent and very observant. They were more aggressive and attack minded in the game against the polish team always on the counter, but in the game against serbia, they tried possession, always trying to build from the back.

Exactly, different approaches.. He is testing things out.. None of the strategies are perfect yet. That could even be responsible for the disjointed nature of our offensive play.

Kog45:
Sir there is one thing we should get here regards eagles invitation, any Nigerian playing competitive football regardless of his age has every right to eagles if Rohr extend invitation to him.

If anyone is suggesting Austin Ejide,Aiyenugba or Enyeama,good cos they are still active but left for Rohr to decide as a coach.

If Rohr believe it's Uzoho good for the team and if he believe there is need to call Ejide and Aiyenugba even Enyeama all well and good,what matter most is our performance.

Sir are you saying we are going to WC to build for future cos am hearing this tone often on this thread,some are even saying our performance doesn't matter and Rohr should be given life contract.

I think this is our sixth WC attempts and i will not deceive you Nigerians are expecting clear cut performance from eagles,anything short of this is not acceptable,forget the team is for the future slogans.

Truly we have a very young squad that will give us a good platform for 2022 WC but not an excuse for poor performance at WC.

I remember Senegal went to 2002 WC with relatively young team and reached quarter final even defeated France the defending champion.So we can do it too cos the talents are abound.

I think the team is evolving and i know Rohr as a season coach will do thorough appraiser of the friendlies matches played so far to address the grey area for better performance.

I don't knw what we re building, we av been building since d days of chukwu-shuaibu-keshi-and u still want us to hide under d disguise of building,are we building a NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY ,dt is always under construction?

Even d German,he used as an example got to d semi -final of 2006 edition. Fans re expecting much from dis team.we re tired of building, even d captain said it few months back during his interview dt,its high time dey gave a good account of demselves in dis world cup

tbaba1234:
Exactly, different approaches.. He is testing things out.. None of the strategies are perfect yet. That could even be responsible for the disjointed nature of our offensive play.

tbaba1234 i know you love this eagles passionately and i share your dream but i don't think testing things or different approaches are the issue cos we played Argentina with alien formation and the team was superb.

Sir do you want to hear fact our midfielders are not doing well with the absence of Mikel and it will always be a serious burden on the defence and attack.

Sir check it out against Poland and Serbia how many shot at goal,something is missing and i know Rohr is aware of the situation and mark my word you will see a better improve Eagles in the next friendlies.

darkelf:
Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup


IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.


The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.

The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.

Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard..

NEWS
GOSSIP
LIFESTYLE
NPFL
TRANSFERS
SUPER EAGLES


Home Opinion Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
OpinionSuper Eagles
Aiyenugba, Ejide still remain best goalkeeping options for World Cup
By admin - March 29, 2018, 1:08 pm248 0
Share on Facebook Tweet on Twitter

Dele Aiyenugba
IKENWA NNABUOGOR has warned that Super Eagles could run into deeper goalkeeping crisis at the World Cup in Russia and reckoned the experience and consistency of Dele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide could still keep things tighter between the sticks for Nigeria.

The essence of friendly games leading up to the World Cup or any major tournament is make amends, plug loopholes, bring on experience and most importantly right some wrongs to ensure a decent outing going forward.



The double friendlies against Poland and Serbia have definitely confirmed my humble fears in the Eagles goalkeeping, which continues not to enjoy much-needed conviction.

Young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho asserted himself creditably well, but lots of improvements need to be assured before the Eagles hit the grounds running in Russia in June, hence, the urgent need to bring on experience and that will not come in short supply from Austine Ejide and Dele Aiyenugba, two top goalkeepers keeping it real for their respective Israeli clubs.

Uzoho, no doubt, at 19, has proved he could perform, but certainly not primed to face Argentina and company in Russia judging by his performances against Poland and Serbia.

It was clearly evident he overcame first-half jitters in both encounters to get things done, and creditably well, to say the least.

But I fear that competitiveness will be a lot fiercer in Russia and tough customers like Messi and company could capitalise on this to wrap the games in record time.

First half is way long 45 minutes and enough time for the likes of Messi to punish any team. Eagles may not recover after the collateral damage! This is World Cup, be warned!

Uzoho’s ball kicking technique is another worrying concern to me, I don’t know if watchers are seeing it. This is also danger looming. Unconvincing as they seem could land on the feet of players like Messi, Sergio Aguero, Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric and the ball could be re-directed into the Eagles’ net.

Experience, age, key elements

Wine gets sweeter with age and experience cannot be thrashed, why then are we keeping ours in the cooler as danger looms?

Rohr must do something fast and get Ejide and Aiyenugba into the squad as the clock ticks away fast.

Both ‘keepers have all going for them and most importantly, game competitiveness going into the global party in Russia.


Daniel Akpeyi (left) with Ezenwa in Eagles training
The World Cup is not U20 World Cup, and age and experience are the ingredients for assured goalkeeping.

Talents abound no doubt, and Uzoho has it in abundance, but not in a big boys’ party like the World Cup.

Ejide and Aiyenugba, on the other hand, were deputies to Vincent Enyeama in the previous World Cup outings for the country and have continued their acts at their clubs, matching consistency with top performances.

Ejide/Aiyenugba vs Uzoho

Uzoho’s experience and game competitiveness are significantly in low supply compared with the older duo.

Besides, Ejide and Aiyenugba are not new to top competitions having garnered top level experiences playing in Africa and Europe and as well, at international levels with the Super Eagles.

Ejide, for sure, has the biggest imposing physique of the three goalkeepers, but the shorter Aiyenugba makes up for his lack of enough inches compared to Ejide and Uzoho, with uncommon bravery, good enough to keep strikers at bay.

Interestingly, his penalty-stopping qualities have also stood him out.

Uzoho plays in the Spanish third-tier and this scores him low compared to the duo playing first and second-tier football in Israel.


Austin Ejide
Though, some can argue that the level at the Spanish third-tier cannot be compared with that of Israel, experience and consistency of the older duo cannot be looked down on.

Defence organisation can only get way better for Ejide and Aiyenugba due to their age and experience, but for Uzoho, a lot has to be done in this regard, no thanks for his lack of experience.

His performances have shown he could be up to the task in barking instructions to his team mates, but could it have been better than Ejide and Aiyenugba judging by his age?

Ejide’s and Aiyenugba’s ball kicking techniques can initiate quick attacking options that could lead to goals, but Uzoho has shown he needs a lot of improvement in this regard.


Francis Uzoho dives to stop Robert Lewandowski in Poland
Understudy

Going forward, the best thing to happen to this youngster is to understudy Ejide and Aiyenugba in Russia and by the next World Cup in Qatar, he would be a finished product.

He will be 23 in 2022 and he continues to do his thing well at club level, there won’t be anyone stopping him in Qatar.

Surely, he got the potential to get the top spenders breaking the banks for him, but he has to work his way up there.

Handing him top responsibilities in Russia could expose him big time and his progress could be affected negatively afterwards.

We are not running against the time yet and Eagles will gain a lot more with an assured cover in the last line of defence.

Genuine lovers of Nigerian football will and should be on the same page because football unites all diverse ethnic groups at least for 90 minutes.



By Ikenwa Nnabuogor

Coming from someone who understands what is at stake.

Kog45, I am sure you have read this too. What is your take?

elyte89:
I don't knw what we re building, we av been building since d days of chukwu-shuaibu-keshi-and u still want us to hide under d disguise of building,are we building a NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY ,dt is always under construction?

Even d German,he used as an example got to d semi -final of 2006 edition. Fans re expecting much from dis team.we re tired of building, even d captain said it few months back during his interview dt,its high time dey gave a good account of demselves in dis world cup

elyte89 baba u don vex

Icon4s:
Coming from someone who understands what is at stake.

Kog45, I am sure you have read this too. What is your take?

icon4s baba i don tire for this keeper issue.

Pls check my response to Oga Truidstar's comment.

Kog45:
tbaba1234 i know you love this eagles passionately and i share your dream but i don't think testing things or different approaches are the issue cos we played Argentina with alien formation and the team was superb.

Sir do you want to hear fact our midfielders are not doing well with the absence of Mikel and it will always be a serious burden on the defence and attack.

Sir check it out against Poland and Serbia how many shot at goal,something is missing and i know Rohr is aware of the situation and mark my word you will see a better improve Eagles in the next friendlies.

We were not good in the first half against Argentina.. We revised our approach in the second half and looked better.

The important thing is to learn our lessons now and wirk hard to improve.

tbaba1234:
We were not good in the first half against Argentina.. We revised our approach in the second half and looked better.

The important thing is to learn our lessons now and wirk hard to improve.

That's it.